Electrical connector having grounding mechanism

ABSTRACT

An elbow-type medium or high voltage electrical device includes a longitudinal body, a first connector end formed substantially perpendicularly to an axial direction of the longitudinal body, and an integral grounding element end substantially perpendicularly to the axial direction of the longitudinal body and opposing the first connector end. The first connector end includes a first axial bore configured to receive a bushing element therein. The grounding element end includes a second axial bore formed therein for receiving a conductive grounding element therein. The grounding element, when inserted into the second axial bore includes an exposed portion projecting above a surface of the grounding element end. The exposed portion of the grounding element is configured for attachment by a grounded hot line clamp to ground the electrical connector assembly.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/943,920, filed Jul. 17, 2013, which is a non-provisionalapplication claiming priority under 35 U.S.C. §119, based on U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/673,469, filed Jul. 19, 2012, thedisclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to electrical cable connectors, such asloadbreak connectors and deadbreak connectors. More particularly,aspects described herein relate to an electrical cable connector, suchas a power cable elbow or T-connector connected to electrical switchgearassembly.

Loadbreak connectors used in conjunction with 15 and 25 KV switchgeargenerally include a power cable elbow connector having one end adaptedfor receiving a power cable and another end adapted for receiving aloadbreak bushing insert or other switchgear device. The end adapted forreceiving the bushing insert generally includes an elbow cuff forproviding an interference fit with a molded flange on the bushinginsert.

In some implementations, the elbow connector may include a secondopening formed opposite to the bushing insert opening for facilitatingconnection of the elbow connector to the bushing and to provideconductive access to the power cable by other devices, such as a surgearrestor, a tap plug, etc.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a schematic, exploded side view illustrating a power cableelectrical connector consistent with implementations described herein;

FIG. 1B is a schematic side view of the power cable elbow connector ofFIG. 1A in an assembled configuration.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the grounding device and insulatedcap of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of the electrical connector of FIG. 1 ina partially disassembled configuration;

FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of an exemplary hot line clamp;

FIG. 5 is a schematic side view of the hot line clamp of FIG. 4 coupledto the elbow connector of FIG. 3 in a manner consistent with embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIG. 6 is a schematic, partially exploded, side view diagram of anotherembodiment of a power cable elbow connector consistent with embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIGS. 7A and 7B are end and top views, respectively, of the groundingcam-op link assembly of FIG. 6;

FIGS. 8A-8C are side view illustrations of the power cable elbowconnector of FIG. 1 during installation and use of the grounding cam-oplink assembly;

FIGS. 9A-9C are side view illustrations of another exemplary groundingdevice consistent with embodiments described herein;

FIGS. 10A-10C are combined side/cross-sectional views of still anotherexemplary grounding device and insulated cap consistent with embodimentsdescribed herein;

FIGS. 11A and 11B are schematic, cross-sectional side views illustratinganother power cable electrical connector consistent with implementationsdescribed herein in an exploded and assembled conditions, respectively;

FIG. 11C is a schematic, cross-sectional side view illustrating stillanother power cable electrical connector consistent with implementationsdescribed herein in an assembled configuration; and

FIGS. 12 and 13 are schematic, cross-sectional side views illustratingvoltage arresters consistent with implementations described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings.The same reference numbers in different drawings may identify the sameor similar elements.

FIG. 1A is a schematic exploded side view of a power cable elbowconnector 100 consistent with implementations described herein. FIG. 1Bis a schematic side view of the power cable elbow connector 100 in anassembled configuration. As shown, power cable elbow connector 100 mayinclude a main housing body 102 that includes a conductor receiving end104 for receiving a power cable 106 therein and first and second T-ends108/110 that include openings for receiving an equipment bushing, suchas a deadbreak or loadbreak transformer bushing 111 or other high ormedium voltage terminal, such as an insulating plug, or other powerequipment. Consistent with implementations described herein, secondT-end 110 may be configured to receive a grounding device 113 describedin additional detail below.

As shown, conductor receiving end 104 may extend along a main axis ofconnector 100 and may include a bore 112 extending therethrough. Firstand second T-ends 108/110 may project substantially perpendicularly fromconductor receiving end 104 in opposing directions from one another.First and second T-ends 108/110 may include bores 114/116, respectively,formed therethrough for receiving equipment, bushings, and/or plugs. Acontact area 118 may be formed at the confluence of bores 112, 114, and116.

Power cable elbow connector 100 may include an electrically conductiveouter shield 120 formed from, for example, a conductive peroxide-curedsynthetic rubber, commonly referred to as EPDM(ethylene-propylene-dienemonomer). Within shield 120, power cable elbowconnector 100 may include an insulative inner housing, typically moldedfrom an insulative rubber or epoxy material, and a conductive orsemi-conductive insert that surrounds the connection portion of powercable 106.

As shown in FIG. 1A, bushing 111 may include a stud portion 122projecting axially therefrom. During assembly of elbow connector 100onto bushing 111, as shown in FIG. 1B, stud portion 122 of bushing 111is received into contact area 118 and extend through an opening in aspade portion coupled to power cable 106 (not shown).

Consistent with embodiments described herein, grounding device 113 maybe configured to conductively couple to power cable 106 and bushing 111.In an initial configuration, an insulated cap 124 may be installed ontogrounding device 113. FIG. 2 is a detailed cross-sectional view ofgrounding device 113 and insulated cap 124.

As shown in FIG. 2, grounding device 113 includes a conductive coreportion 126 and an insulated body 128. In one implementation, insulatedbody 128 may include a first tapered portion 130, a central portion 132,and a second tapered portion 134. As shown, first portion 130 includes atapered configuration for seating within bore 116 in second T-end 110 ofmain housing body 102.

Central portion 132 includes a generally cylindrical configurationhaving a larger diameter than an interior end of first tapered portion130. During assembly, as shown in FIG. 1B, central portion 132 abuts anouter surface of second T-end 110.

Second tapered portion 134 projects from central portion 132 in an axialdirection away from first tapered portion 132 and includes a taperedconfiguration for receiving a cavity 158 in insulated cap 124 (describedbelow). Consistent with embodiments described herein, insulated body 128may be formed of an insulative rubber or epoxy material. Furthermore, asshown in FIG. 2, central portion 132 may include an outer shield portion136 formed on a radial periphery thereof. Outer shield portion 136 maybe formed of a conductive or semi-conductive material, such as EPDM. Asshown in FIG. 1B, following assembly, outer shield portion 136 ofgrounding device 113 remains exposed. By providing outer shield portion136 of a conductive material (similar to main housing body 102),electrical continuity is maintained throughout an exterior of theassembled connector 100.

As shown in FIG. 2, conductive core 126 includes a substantiallycylindrical configuration that extends through an interior of insulatedbody 128. Conductive core 126 includes a stud receiving end 138 and aclamp engaging end 140 that projects beyond an end of insulated body128. Conductive core 126 may be formed of a conductive material, such asbrass, steel, or aluminum and, upon assembly, may conductively couplewith power cable 106 and bushing 112 via stud portion 122.

In one embodiment, stud receiving end 138 may include a threaded opening142 for matingly engaging corresponding threads on stud portion 122 ofbushing 111, although other means for coupling with stud portion 122 maybe incorporated, such as a push or snap-on connection, etc. Furthermore,in some implementations, the male/female relationship of stud portion122 and stud receiving end 138 may be reversed.

As shown in FIG. 2, clamp engaging end 140 includes a clamp engagingouter surface 144 and a multi-function bore 146 formed axially therein.As shown, clamp engaging outer surface 144 extends beyond an end ofsecond tapered end 134 of insulated body 128. As described in detailbelow, clamp engaging outer surface 144 provides an engagement surfacefor engaging a hot line clamp or other suitable ground clamp device.Although clamp engaging outer surface 144 is depicted in FIG. 2 ashaving a smooth configuration, in other implementations, clamp engagingouter surface 144 may be provided with a high friction surface, such asa grooved or knurled surface to facilitate secure clamping.

Multi-function bore 146 extends axially within clamp engaging end 140 ofconductive core 126 and includes a grounding device attachment portion148 and cap securing portion 150. As shown in FIG. 2, grounding deviceattachment portion 148 of multi-function bore 146 may be formed on theinterior of multi-function bore 146 and includes a tool engagingconfiguration for receiving a tool, such as a hex wrench, therein.

During assembly of elbow connector 100, first tapered portion 130 andstud receiving end 138 of grounding device 113 are inserted into bore116 in second T-end 110. Threaded opening 142 in conductive core 126 maybe threaded onto stud portion 122 of bushing 111. A suitable tool isthen inserted into multi-function bore 146 and into engagement withgrounding device attachment portion 148. The tool is then rotated tosecure grounding device 113 within second T-end 110. Although groundingdevice attachment portion 148 is depicted in FIG. 2 as including ahexagonal surface configuration, in other embodiments, different typesof tool engaging configurations may be used, such as flat or Phillipshead configurations, a Torx configuration, a 12-sided configuration,etc.

As shown in FIG. 2, cap securing portion 150 of multi-function bore 146may include an internally threaded configuration for use in securelyretaining insulated cap 124. Insulated cap 124 may include an outerconductive or semi-conductive shield 152, an insulative inner housing154, typically molded from an insulative rubber or epoxy material, and aconductive or semi-conductive insert 156 that surrounds clamp engagingend 140 of conductive core 126 once insulated cap 124 is installed ongrounding device 113.

As shown in FIG. 2, insulated cap 124 includes a substantially conicalcavity 158 formed therein for receiving clamp engaging end 140 andsecond tapered portion 134 of grounding device 113. As described brieflyabove, the conical configuration of cavity 158 corresponds to thetapered configuration of second tapered portion 134 to allow insulatedcap 124 to become seated on grounding device 113 during installation.Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2, insulated cap 124 may include anengagement stud 160 having a threaded outer surface for engagingthreaded cap securing portion 150 of multi-function bore 146 inconductive core 126. During assembly, engagement stud 160 may bethreaded into cap securing portion 150 and tightened to secure insulatedcap 124 to grounding device 113.

In one exemplary implementation, insulated cap 124 may include a voltagedetection test point assembly 162 for sensing a voltage in connector100. Voltage detection test point assembly 162 may be configured toallow an external voltage detection device to detect and/or measure avoltage associated with elbow connector 100.

For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, voltage detection test pointassembly 162 may include a test point terminal 164 embedded in a portionof insulative inner housing 154 of insulated cap 124 and extendingthrough an opening within outer shield 152. In one exemplary embodiment,test point terminal 164 may be formed of a conductive metal or otherconductive material. In this manner, test point terminal 164 may becapacitively coupled to conductive core 126 of grounding device 113 uponinstallation of insulated cap to grounding device 113.

As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, a test point cap 166 may sealingly engagean exposed portion of test point terminal 164 and outer shield 152. Inone implementation, test point cap 166 may be formed of asemi-conductive material, such as EPDM. When test point terminal 164 isnot being accessed, test point cap 166 may be mounted on test pointassembly 162. Because test point cap 166 is formed of a conductive orsemiconductive material, test point cap 166 may ground test pointassembly 162 when in position. Test point cap 166 may include anaperture 168 for facilitating removal, e.g., using a hooked lineman'stool. In addition, insulated cap 124 may include a bailing assembly foruse in securing cap 124 and grounding device 113 to elbow connector 100.

When it is desired to perform work on a particular line or switchgearcomponent, it is necessary to ensure that the system is properlyde-energized and grounded before work can begin. Consistent withembodiments described herein, to accomplish this, a technician firsttests connector 100, e.g., using voltage detection test point assembly162, to ensure that connector 100 has been de-energized. If the testindicates that the connector 100 is de-energized, insulated cap 124 isremoved (e.g., by unscrewing) from grounding device 113. FIG. 3 is aschematic side view of connector 100 in a partially disassembledconfiguration, e.g., after removal of insulated cap 124 from groundingdevice 113. As shown in FIG. 3, in this configuration, clamp engagingend 140 of conductive core 126 is exposed.

FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of an exemplary hot line clamp 400. FIG.5 is a schematic side view of hot line clamp 400 coupled to elbowconnector 100 in a manner consistent with embodiments described herein.

Referring to FIG. 4, in one exemplary implementation, hot line clamp 400includes a conductive body 402, a clamping member 404, and a ground lineattachment portion 406. Conductive body 402 may be formed of aconductive metal, such as brass or aluminum and may include a generallyv or c-shaped region 408 for receiving a portion of clamp engaging end140 of conductive core 126. For example, a width “W” may besubstantially similar, yet slightly larger than an outside diameter ofclamp engaging end 140. With such a configuration, v-shaped region 408may easily slip onto exposed clamp engaging end 140 following removal ofinsulated cap 124.

As shown in FIG. 4, conductive body 402 may include an opposing portion410 projecting from body 402 in a location opposing v-shaped region 408.Opposing portion 410 includes a threaded aperture therethroughconfigured to receive clamping member 404, such that clamping member ispositioned in clamping relation to v-shaped region 408.

Clamping member 404, in one exemplary embodiment, includes a generallycylindrical, threaded body 412 having a tool engaging portion 414 on oneend and a part engagement portion 416 on an opposing end, distal fromtool engaging portion 414. During assembly of hot line clamp 400, body412 is threaded through opposing portion 410 such that part engagementportion 416 opposes v-shaped region 408.

As shown in FIG. 5, during connection of hot line clamp 400 to elbowconnector 100, v-shaped region 408 of conductive body 402 is placed overthe exposed clamp engaging end 140 of ground device 113. Tool engagingportion 414 of clamping member 404 is then rotated, e.g., using alineman's hook, causing part engaging portion 416 to travel towardv-shaped region 408, thus securing clamp engaging end 140 of groundingdevice 113 within hot line clamp 400.

Returning to FIG. 4, conductive body 402 of hot line clamp 400 alsoincludes an aperture 418 for receiving ground line attachment portion406. Ground line attachment portion 406 may include a mechanism forsecuring a ground line 420 to, for example, a threaded lug 422. In oneimplementation, ground line attachment portion 406 may include a crimpstyle connector for securing ground line 420 to lug 422. As shown inFIG. 4, lug 422 may be inserted into aperture 418 in conductive body 402and secured using nut 424.

Embodiments described herein increase the efficiency with which work maybe performed on a power line or switchgear component by providing anefficient means for grounding elbow connector 100 without requiringdisassembly of the connector or replacement of the connector with asingle-purpose grounding component. Rather, grounding device 113 ismaintained within elbow connector 100 for use when needed. Whengrounding is not needed, insulated cap 124 may be reinstalled and powercable elbow connector 100 may operate in a conventional manner.

FIG. 6 is a schematic, partially exploded, side view diagram of anotherpower cable elbow connector 600 consistent with embodiments describedherein. FIGS. 7A and 7B are end and top views, respectively, of agrounding cam-op link assembly 650. FIGS. 8A-8C are side viewillustrations of power cable elbow connector 600 during installation anduse of grounding cam-op link assembly 650.

As shown in FIG. 6, power cable elbow connector 600 includes a bodyportion 602, a conductor receiving end 604 for receiving a power cable606 therein (also referred to as the “line”), first and second T-ends608/610 distal from conductor receiving end 604 that include openingsfor receiving a deadbreak transformer bushing 611, or other high ormedium voltage terminals (also referred to as the “load”), such as aninsulating plug, or other power equipment (e.g., a tap, a voltagearrestor, etc.). Power cable elbow connector 600 further includes a linkinterface 612, which, in combination with second T-end 610 receives acam-op link therein. Although not shown in FIG. 6, power cable elbowconnector 600 includes equipment for terminating power cable 606 in amanner that is electrically isolated from first and second T-ends608/610. A cam-op link (not shown) is used to bridge the conductive gapbetween power cable 606 and bushing 611.

As shown, conductor receiving end 604 may extend along a main axis ofconnector 600 and may include a bore 614 extending therethrough. Firstand second T-ends 608/610 may project substantially perpendicularly fromconductor receiving end 604 in opposing directions from one another.Link interface 612 may also project perpendicularly from conductorreceiving end 604 in a direction parallel to second T-end 610. First andsecond T-ends 608/610 may include bores 615/616, respectively, formedtherethrough for receiving bushing 611, and one of the legs of a cam-oplink (not show), respectively. As briefly described above, linkinterface 612 may receive the other leg of the cam-op link duringassembly. Moreover, link interface 612 may include a conductive stud(not shown) that is electrically coupled to power cable 606. A leg ofcam-op link inserted into link interface 612 includes a stud receivingportion for receiving the conductive stud, to facilitate electricalcontact from bushing 611 to power cable 606 via the cam-op link.

Similar to power cable elbow connector 100 described above, power cableelbow connector 600 may include an electrically conductive outer shield618 formed from, for example, a conductive or semi-conductiveperoxide-cured synthetic rubber, such as EPDM. Further, although notshown in the Figures, power cable elbow connector 600 may furtherinclude an insulative inner housing, typically molded from an insulativerubber or silicon material, and a conductive or semi-conductive insertthat surrounds the connection portion of power cable 106. As brieflydescribed above, the area between first and second T-ends 608/610 andlink interface 612 may be filled with an insulative material, so as toelectrically isolate first and second T-ends 608/610 from link interface612.

Consistent with embodiments described herein, when it becomes necessaryto ground the “load” side of connector 600 (e.g., bushing 611), thecam-op link may be removed and a grounding cam-op link assembly 650 maybe installed within second T-end 610 and link interface 612.

As shown in FIG. 6, grounding cam-op link assembly 650 includes linkbody portion 652, rearward link interface bushing 654, forward linkinterface bushing 656, grounding interface 658, and link engagementassembly 660. Grounding cam-op link 650 may be configured to provide agrounded interface for terminal bushing 611, which is electricallyisolated from power cable 606.

As shown in FIG. 6, link body portion 652 extends substantially axiallywith rearward and forward link interface bushings 654/656 projectingsubstantially perpendicularly therefrom. Although not shown in theFigures, rearward link interface bushing 654 includes a stud receivingbus for receiving the conductive stud couple to power cable 606. Uponinstallation into connector 600, rearward link interface bushing 654 maybe configured to align with (and sized for insertion into) linkinterface 612 and forward link interface bushing 656 may be configuredto align with (and sized for insertion into) second T-end 610, as shownin FIGS. 8A and 8B.

Forward link interface bushing 656 may include a conductive core 662extending therethrough. Similar to conductive core 126 of groundingdevice 113 described above, conductive core 662 is configured tointerface with stud 663 in bushing 611, such as via correspondinglythreaded engagement. Grounding interface 658 extends from conductivecore 662 and projects above a surface of link body portion 652.

As shown in FIG. 6, in one implementation, grounding interface 658includes a ball end 665, designed to engage with a suitably sized ballsocket clamp (element 800 in FIGS. 8B and 8C), as described in detailbelow. Conductive core 662 and grounding interface 658 may be formed asone element of conductive material, such as copper, brass, steel, oraluminum. In other implementations, grounding interface 658 may beseparate from a secured to conductive core 662.

Grounding cam-op link assembly 650 may include an electricallyconductive outer shield 664 formed from, for example, EPDM. Withinshield 664, grounding cam-op link assembly 650 may include an insulativeinner housing. In some embodiments, a portion of outer shield 664 andinner housing between the rearward and forward link interface bushings654/656 may be provided with a viewing port extending therethrough forvisually ensuring the absence of a conductive link between linkinterface 612 and bushing 611.

As shown in FIG. 6, link engagement assembly 660 may include a link armbracket 666 and a link arm 668. Link arm bracket 666 may be secured togrounding cam-op link 600 (e.g., via one or more bolts, etc.). Link arm668 may, in turn, be rotatably secured to link arm bracket 666 via apivot pin 670. In some implementations, pivot pin 670 may extend fromlink arm 668 to engage a corresponding slot 672 in a cam-op link bracket674 connected to elbow connector 600. Link arm bracket 666 may include astop 676 for preventing link arm 668 from rotating past a verticalorientation and a hole 678 in an end of link arm 668 distal from pivotpin 670, for enabling engagement of link arm 668 by a suitable tool,such as a hotstick or lineman's tool. Downward movement of the tool maycause link arm 668 to rotate downward about pivot pin 670 towardrearward link interface bushing 654 and forward link interface bushing656.

Link arm 668 may also include a curved clamp pin engagement slot 680 forengaging a corresponding clamp pin in cam-op link bracket 674. Rotationof link arm 668 about pivot pin 670 when grounding cam-op link assembly650 is installed in connector 100 (as shown in FIG. 8A) may cause clamppin engagement slot 680 to slidingly engage clamp pin 681, therebysecuring grounding cam-op link assembly 650 to connector 600.

Once installed within link interface 612 and second T-end 610, as shownin FIGS. 8B and 8C, ball socket clamp 800 may be installed on groundinginterface 658. In one exemplary implementation, ball socket clamp 800includes a conductive body 802, a clamping member 804, and a ground lineattachment portion 806. Conductive body 802 may be formed of aconductive metal, such as brass or aluminum and may include a socketportion 808 formed therein for receiving ball end 665 of groundinginterface 658. For example, a width “W2” may be substantially similar,yet slightly larger than an outside diameter of ball end 665. With sucha configuration, socket portion 808 may easily slip onto exposed ballend 665 following installation of grounding cam-op link 650 into elbowconnector 600.

As shown in FIG. 8B, conductive body 802 may include a threaded aperture810 for receiving clamping member 804, such that clamping member 804 ispositioned in clamping relation to socket portion 808. Clamping member804, in one exemplary embodiment, includes a generally cylindrical,threaded body 812 having a tool engaging portion 814 on one end and aball engaging portion (not shown) on an opposing end, distal from toolengaging portion 814. During assembly of ball socket clamp 800, body 812is threaded through aperture 810 such that the ball engaging portionengages ball end 665 of grounding interface 658.

As shown in FIG. 8C, during connection of ball socket clamp 800 togrounding interface 658, socket portion 808 of conductive body 802 isplaced over exposed ball end 665 of grounding interface 658. Toolengaging portion 814 of clamping member 804 is then rotated, e.g., usinga lineman's hook, causing the ball engaging portion to travel towardsocket portion 808, thus securing ball end 665 of grounding interface658 within ball socket clamp 800.

As shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, conductive body 802 of ball socket clamp800 also includes an aperture 818 for receiving ground line attachmentportion 806. Ground line attachment portion 806 may include a mechanismfor securing a ground line 820 to, for example, a threaded lug 822. Inone implementation, ground line attachment portion 806 may include acrimp style connector for securing ground line 820 to lug 822. Lug 822may be inserted into aperture 818 in conductive body 802 and securedusing nut 824.

Embodiments described herein increase the efficiency with which work maybe performed on a power line or switchgear component by providing anefficient means for grounding elbow connector 600. More specifically, aconventional cam-op link assembly may be easily removed and replacedwith grounding cam-op link assembly 650. The grounding interface 658 ofgrounding cam-op link assembly may then be coupled to a grounded ballsocket clamp 800 to facilitate grounding of connector 600.

FIGS. 9A-9C are side view illustrations of another exemplary groundingdevice consistent with embodiments described herein. In particular, FIG.9A is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating an exemplary groundingdevice 900 and grounding interface 902 in a pre-assembled configuration.FIG. 9B is a side view of grounding device 900 and grounding interface902 in an assembled configuration. FIG. 9C is a side view of groundingdevice 900 and grounding interface 902 showing ball socket clamp 800installed on grounding interface 902.

Consistent with embodiments described herein, grounding device 900,similar to grounding device 113 described above, includes a conductivecore portion 904 and an insulated body 906. In one implementation,insulated body 906 includes a first tapered portion 908, a centralportion 910, and a second tapered portion 912.

Central portion 910 includes a generally cylindrical configurationhaving a larger diameter than an interior end of first tapered portion906. During assembly, central portion 910 abuts an outer surface ofsecond T-end 110 in power cable elbow connector 100.

Second tapered portion 912 projects from central portion 910 in an axialdirection away from first tapered portion 908 and includes a taperedconfiguration for receiving an insulated cap, similar to insulated cap124 described above in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2.

Insulated body 906 may be formed of an insulative rubber or epoxymaterial. Furthermore, in some embodiments, central portion 910 includesan outer shield portion 914 formed on a radial periphery thereof. Outershield portion 914 may be formed of a conductive or semi-conductivematerial, such as EPDM.

Conductive core 904 includes a substantially cylindrical configurationthat extends through an interior of insulated body 906. Conductive core904 includes a stud receiving end 916 and a grounding interfacereceiving end 918 that projects beyond an end of insulated body 906.Conductive core 904 may be formed of a conductive material, such asbrass, steel, or aluminum and, upon assembly, may conductively couplewith power cable 106 and bushing 112 in power cable elbow connector 100.

In one embodiment, stud receiving end 916 includes a threaded opening920 for matingly engaging corresponding threads on a bushing, such asbushing 111 described above. However, in other embodiments, other meansfor coupling with the bushing may be incorporated, such as a push orsnap-on connection, etc.

As shown in FIG. 9A, grounding interface receiving end 918 includes asubstantially cylindrical outer surface 144 and a multi-function bore922 formed axially therein. As shown, grounding interface receiving end918 extends beyond an end of second tapered end 912 of insulated body906. As described in detail below, grounding interface receiving end 918is configured to receive and secure grounding interface 902 to groundingdevice 900.

Multi-function bore 922 extends axially within grounding interfacereceiving end 918 and includes a grounding device attachment portion 924and grounding interface/insulated cap securing portion 926. Groundingdevice attachment portion 924 of multi-function bore 922 may be formedon the interior of multi-function bore 922 and includes a tool engagingconfiguration for receiving a tool, such as a hex wrench, therein.

During assembly of grounding device 900 to elbow connector 100, firsttapered portion 908 of grounding device 900 is inserted into bore 116 insecond T-end 110 of connector 100. Threaded opening 920 in studreceiving end 916 in conductive core 904 may be threaded onto studportion 122 of bushing 111. A suitable tool is then inserted intomulti-function bore 922 and into engagement with grounding deviceattachment portion 924. The tool is then rotated to secure groundingdevice 900 within second T-end 110.

As shown in FIG. 9A, grounding interface/insulated cap securing portion926 of multi-function bore 922 may include an internally threadedportion 928 for use in securely retaining both grounding interface 902and an insulated cap, such as insulated 124, described above.

As shown, grounding interface 902 includes a conductive body 930 havinga ball end 931, designed to engage with a suitably sized ball socketclamp, such as ball socket clamp 800 described above. As shown in FIG.9A, conductive body 930 of grounding interface 902 may include athreaded portion 932 configured to engage grounding interface/insulatedcap securing portion 926 of multi-function bore 922. Grounding interface902 may also include a tool engaging portion 934 configured to enablegrounding interface 902 to be secured to grounding device 900 using awrench or hexagonal socket.

In some embodiments, conductive core 930, ball end 931, and toolengaging portion 934 may be formed as one element of conductivematerial, such as copper, brass, steel, or aluminum. In otherimplementations, one or more of these components may be formedseparately and secured to conductive core 930, such as via welding, etc.

During assembly, as shown in FIG. 9B, threaded portion 932 of conductivebody of grounding interface 902 may be inserted into multi-function bore922. Threaded portion 932 then engages threaded portion 928 inmulti-function bore 922. A socket, such as socket 936 shown in FIG. 9Bmay be used to apply torque to tool engaging portion 934 to securegrounding interface 902 to grounding device 900.

As shown in FIG. 9C, during connection of ball socket clamp 800 togrounding interface 902, socket portion 808 is placed over exposed ballend 931 of grounding interface 902. Tool engaging portion 814 ofclamping member 804 is then rotated, e.g., using a lineman's hook,causing the ball engaging portion to travel toward socket portion 808,thus securing ball end 931 of grounding interface 902 within ball socketclamp 800.

When it is no longer necessary to ground connector 100, groundinginterface 902 may be removed (e.g., using socket 936) and a suitableinsulating cap may be installed over second tapered portion 912 andsecured via multi-function bore 922 in a manner similar to thatdescribed above in relation to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2.

Although the embodiment of FIGS. 9A-9C is shown with respect to areducing plug for inserting into a T-end of a power cable elbowconnector, in other embodiments, the configuration of groundinginterface 902 may be applied to other devices, such as cam-op linkdevices, similar to those described above in relation to FIGS. 6-8C.

FIGS. 10A-10C are cross sectional/side view illustrations of yet anotherexemplary grounding device consistent with embodiments described herein.In particular, FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional diagram illustrating anexemplary grounding device 100 and grounding interface 1002 in apre-assembled configuration. FIG. 10B is a side view of grounding device1000 and grounding interface 1002 in an assembled configuration andfurther illustrating (in cross-section) an exemplary insulating cap 1003positioned for assembly on grounding device 1000. FIG. 10C is a sideview of grounding device 1000 and grounding interface 1002 showinginsulating cap 1003 installed on grounding interface 1000.

Consistent with embodiments described herein, grounding device 1000,similar to grounding device 900 described above in relation to FIGS.9A-9C, includes a conductive core portion 1004 and an insulated body1006. In one implementation, insulated body 1006 includes a firsttapered portion 1008, a central portion 1010, and a second taperedportion 1012.

Central portion 1010 includes a generally cylindrical configurationhaving a larger diameter than an interior end of first tapered portion1006. During assembly, central portion 910 abuts an outer surface ofsecond T-end 110 in power cable elbow connector 100.

Second tapered portion 1012 projects from central portion 1010 in anaxial direction away from first tapered portion 1008 and includes atapered configuration for receiving insulated cap 1003, as described inadditional detail below.

Insulated body 1006 may be formed of an insulative rubber or epoxymaterial. Furthermore, in some embodiments, central portion 1010includes an outer shield portion 1014 formed on a radial peripherythereof. Outer shield portion 1014 may be formed of a conductive orsemi-conductive material, such as EPDM.

Conductive core 1004 includes a substantially cylindrical configurationthat extends through an interior of insulated body 1006. Conductive core1004 includes a stud receiving end 1016 and a grounding interfacereceiving end 1018. Conductive core 1004 may be formed of a conductivematerial, such as brass, steel, or aluminum and, upon assembly, mayconductively couple with power cable 106 and bushing 112 in power cableelbow connector 100 following installation.

In one embodiment, stud receiving end 1016 includes a threaded opening1020 for matingly engaging corresponding threads on a bushing, such asbushing 111 described above. However, in other embodiments, other meansfor coupling with the bushing may be incorporated, such as a push orsnap-on connection, etc.

As shown in FIG. 10A, grounding interface receiving end 1018 includes amulti-function bore 1022 formed axially therein. Multi-function bore1022 extends axially within grounding interface receiving end 1018 andincludes a grounding device attachment portion 1024 and groundinginterface securing portion 1026. Grounding device attachment portion1024 of multi-function bore 1022 may be formed on the interior ofmulti-function bore 1022 and includes a tool engaging configuration forreceiving a tool, such as a hex wrench, therein.

During assembly of grounding device 1000 to elbow connector 100, firsttapered portion 1008 of grounding device 1000 is inserted into bore 116in second T-end 110 of connector 100. Threaded opening 1020 in studreceiving end 1016 in conductive core 1004 may be threaded onto studportion 122 of bushing 111. A suitable tool is then inserted intomulti-function bore 1022 and into engagement with grounding deviceattachment portion 1024. The tool is then rotated to secure groundingdevice 1000 within second T-end 110.

As shown in FIG. 10A, grounding interface securing portion 1026 ofmulti-function bore 1022 may include an internally threaded portion 1028for use in securely retaining grounding interface 1002, as describedbelow.

Consistent with embodiments described herein, grounding interface 1002includes a conductive body 1030 having a ball end 1031, designed toengage with a suitably sized ball socket clamp, such as ball socketclamp 800 described above. As shown in FIG. 10A, conductive body 1030 ofgrounding interface 1002 includes first a threaded portion 1032configured to engage grounding interface securing portion 1026 ofmulti-function bore 1022. Grounding interface 1002 may also include asecond threaded portion 1033 configured to engage an interior portion ofcap 1003, as described below, and a tool engaging portion 1034configured to enable grounding interface 1002 to be secured to groundingdevice 1000 using a wrench or hexagonal socket. As shown in FIG. 10A,second threaded portion 1033 is positioned below tool engaging portion1034 (relative to ball end 1031) and includes an outside diametergreater than an outside diameter of tool engaging portion 1034.

In some embodiments, conductive core 1030, ball end 1031, secondthreaded portion 1033, and tool engaging portion 1034 may be formed asone element of conductive material, such as copper, brass, steel, oraluminum. In other implementations, one or more of these components maybe formed separately and secured to conductive core 1030, such as viawelding, etc.

During assembly, as shown in FIG. 10B, first threaded portion 1032 ofconductive body of grounding interface 1002 may be inserted intomulti-function bore 1022 to engage threaded portion 1028 inmulti-function bore 1022. A socket or wrench may be used to apply torqueto tool engaging portion 1034 to secure grounding interface 1002 togrounding device 1000.

When it is no longer necessary to ground connector 100, insulating cap1003 is installed over grounding interface 1002 and second taperedportion 1012 and secured via second threaded portion 1033 in groundinginterface 1002.

In one embodiment, insulated cap 1003 includes an outer conductive orsemi-conductive shield 1036, an insulative inner housing 1038, typicallymolded from an insulative rubber or epoxy material, a conductive orsemi-conductive insert 1040, and an engagement portion 1042. Conductiveor semi-conductive insert 1040 is configured to surround ball end 1031of grounding interface 1002 when insulated cap 1003 is installed ongrounding device 1000.

As shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, insulated cap 1003 includes asubstantially conical cavity 1044 formed therein for receiving ball end1031 and second tapered portion 1012 of grounding device 1000. Theconical configuration of cavity 1044 generally corresponds to thetapered configuration of second tapered portion 1012 to allow insulatedcap 1003 to become seated on grounding device 1000 during installation.

As shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, engagement portion 1042 may includeinternal threads 1046 for engaging the second threaded portion 1033 ofgrounding interface 1002. In one implementation, engagement portion 1042may be formed of a rigid material (e.g., plastic or metal) and may bepress-fit into a recess formed into insert 1040. In other embodiments,engagement portion 1042 may be secured to insert 1040 for other means,such as an adhesive, etc. During assembly, as shown in FIG. 10C, thethreads 1046 of engagement portion 1042 of insulated cap 1003 may bethreaded into second threaded portion 1033 and tightened (e.g., by hand)to secure insulated cap 1003 to grounding device 1000.

Although not shown in FIGS. 10A-10C, in some embodiments, insulated cap1003 may include a voltage detection test point assembly, a test pointcap, and/or a bailing assembly similar to those described above withrespect to FIGS. 1A-2.

It should be noted that, although FIGS. 10A-10C depict grounding device1000 and grounding interface 1002 as two separate elements, in otherimplementations consistent with embodiments described herein, theseelements may be combined, such that grounding interface 1002 is formedintegral with conductive core 1004. In such an implementation, groundingdevice 1000 may be installed into power cable elbow connector using asocket on tool engaging portion 1034.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are schematic, cross-sectional side views illustratinganother power cable electrical connector consistent with implementationsdescribed herein in an exploded and assembled configuration,respectively.

As shown, power cable elbow connector 1100 may include a main housingbody 1102 that includes a conductor receiving end 1104 for receivingpower cable 106 therein, a bushing interface end 1108 providedsubstantially perpendicularly to cable receiving end 1104 and agrounding element end 1110 provided substantially opposite from bushinginterface end 1108. Similar to cable connector 100 described above,bushing interface end 1108 is configured to engage an equipment bushing,such as a deadbreak or loadbreak transformer bushing 111 or other highor medium voltage terminal, such as an insulating plug, or other powerequipment.

Consistent with implementations described herein, grounding element end1110 is configured to incorporate a grounding element 1115, as describedin additional detail below for allowing efficient grounding of connector1100 without requiring disassembly of connector 1100. Grounding elementend 1110 is further configured to engage insulated cap 124, whengrounding of connector 1100 is no longer necessary or advantageous.

As shown, conductor receiving end 1104 of power elbow connector 1100 mayextend along a main axis of connector 1100 and may include a bore 1112extending therethrough. Bushing interface end 1108 includes asubstantially conical bore 1114 formed therethrough for receivingequipment, bushings, and/or plugs. Grounding element end 1110 includes asubstantially cylindrical bore 1116 formed therethrough and configuredto align with bore 1114 in bushing interface end 1108. As describedbelow, bore 1116 in grounding element end 1110 is configured to receivegrounding element 1115 therein, upon assembly of connector 1100. Acontact area 1118 may be formed at the confluence of bores 1112, 1114,and 1116.

Power cable elbow connector 1100 may include an EPDM outer shield 1120.Within shield 1120, power cable elbow connector 1100 includes aninsulative inner housing 1122, typically molded from a rubber or epoxymaterial, and a conductive or semi-conductive insert 1123 that surroundsthe connection portion of power cable 106.

As shown in FIG. 11A, bushing 111 may include a stud portion 122projecting axially therefrom. During assembly of elbow connector 1100onto bushing 111, as shown in FIG. 11B, stud portion 122 of bushing 111is received into contact area 1118 and extend through an opening in aspade portion 107 coupled to power cable 106 and into bore 1116 ingrounding element end 1110.

As shown in FIG. 11A, grounding element end 1110 of connector 1100 mayinclude a tapered portion 1124 and a base portion 1126. Tapered portion1124 projects from base portion 1126 in an axial direction away frombushing interface portion 1108 and includes a tapered configuration forreceiving cavity 158 in insulated cap 124.

As shown in FIG. 11A, grounding element 1115 includes a substantiallycylindrical configuration shaped for insertion into bore 1116 withingrounding element end 1110 of connector 100. As shown in FIG. 11B, whenassembled, grounding element 1115 is conductively coupled with studportion 122 of bushing 111 and spade portion 107 of cable 106. Groundingelement 1115 includes a stud receiving end 1128 and a clamp engaging end1130 that projects beyond an end of tapered portion 1124 of groundingelement end 1110 when installed within bore 1116. Grounding element 1115may be formed of a conductive material, such as copper, brass, steel, oraluminum and, upon assembly.

In one embodiment, stud receiving end 1128 may include a threadedopening 1132 for matingly engaging corresponding threads on stud portion122 of bushing 111, although other means for coupling with stud portion122 may be incorporated, such as a push or snap-on connection, etc.Furthermore, in some implementations, the male/female relationship ofstud portion 122 and stud receiving end 1128 may be reversed.

As shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, clamp engaging end 1130 includes a clampengaging outer surface 1134 and a multi-function bore 1136 formedaxially therein. Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1A-5 describedabove, clamp engaging outer surface 1134 provides an engagement surfacefor engaging a hot line clamp 400 or other suitable ground clamp device.Although clamp engaging outer surface 1134 is depicted in FIGS. 11A-11Bas having a smooth configuration, in other implementations, clampengaging outer surface 1134 may be provided with a high frictionsurface, such as a grooved or knurled surface to facilitate secureclamping.

As shown in FIGS. 11A-11B, multi-function bore 1136 extends axiallywithin clamp engaging end 1130 of grounding element 1115 and includes agrounding element attachment portion 1138 and cap securing portion 1140.As shown, grounding element attachment portion 1138 of multi-functionbore 1136 may be formed on the interior of multi-function bore 1136 andincludes a tool engaging configuration for receiving a tool, such as ahex wrench, therein.

During installation of connector 1110, assume that spade connector 107of power cable 106 is installed within area 1118 and that bushinginterface end 1108 is installed onto bushing 111. At this point,grounding element 1115 is inserted into bore 1116 such that studreceiving end 1128 of grounding element 1115 engages stud 122 projectingthrough a spade connector 107. Threaded opening 1132 in groundingelement 1115 may be threaded onto stud portion 122 of bushing 111 andsecured using a suitable tool via multi-function bore 1136 engaged withgrounding element attachment portion 1138. Although grounding linkattachment portion 1138 is depicted in FIGS. 11A-11B as including ahexagonal surface configuration, in other embodiments, different typesof tool engaging configurations may be used, such as flat or Phillipshead configurations, a Torx configuration, a 12-sided configuration,etc.

As shown in FIG. 11A, cap securing portion 1140 of multi-function bore1136 may include an internally threaded configuration for use insecurely retaining insulated cap 124 in a manner similar to thatdescribed above with respect to FIGS. 1A and 1B.

FIG. 11C is a schematic, cross-sectional side views illustrating powercable electrical connector 1100 having an alternative grounding element1150 consistent with implementations described herein.

As shown in FIG. 11C, grounding element 1150 includes a generallycylindrical body having a stud receiving end 1152 and a groundinginterface end 1154. Similar to grounding element 1115 described above,grounding element 1150 may be formed of a conductive material, such asbrass, steel, or aluminum and, upon assembly, may conductively couplewith power cable 106 and bushing 111.

In one embodiment, stud receiving end 1152 includes a threaded opening1156 for matingly engaging corresponding threads on a bushing, such asbushing 111 described above. However, in other embodiments, other meansfor coupling with the bushing may be incorporated, such as a push orsnap-on connection, etc.

As shown in FIG. 11C, grounding interface end 1154 includes a conductivebody 1158 having a ball end 1160, designed to engage with a suitablysized ball socket clamp, such as ball socket clamp 800 described abovein relation to FIG. 8B. Conductive body 1158 of grounding interface end1154 includes an outer threaded portion 1162 configured to engage aninterior portion 1046 of cap 1003, as described above in relation toFIGS. 10B and 10C, and a tool engaging portion 1064 configured to enablegrounding element 1115 to be secured to stud 122 projecting from bushing111 using, for example, a wrench or hexagonal socket. As shown in FIG.11C, threaded portion 1162 is positioned below tool engaging portion1164 (relative to ball end 1160) and includes an outside diametergreater than an outside diameter of tool engaging portion 1164.

In some embodiments, conductive body 1158, ball end 1160, threadedportion 1162, and tool engaging portion 1164 may be formed as oneelement of conductive material, such as copper, brass, steel, oraluminum. In other implementations, one or more of these components maybe formed separately and secured to conductive body 1158, such as viawelding, etc.

During installation of connector 1100, assume that spade connector 107of power cable 106 is installed within area 1118 and that bushinginterface end 1108 is installed onto bushing 111. At this point,grounding element 1150 may be inserted within bore 1116 in groundingelement end 1110, as shown in FIG. 11C. Threaded opening 1156 ingrounding element 1150 may be threaded onto stud portion 122 of bushing111 and secured using a suitable tool via tool engaging portion 1164.Although tool engaging portion 1164 of grounding element 1150 isdepicted in FIG. 11C as including a hexagonal surface configuration, inother embodiments, different types of tool engaging configurations maybe used, such as a 12-sided configuration, etc.

When it is no longer necessary to ground connector 1100, insulating cap1003 is installed over grounding interface end 1154 and secured viaouter threaded portion 1162 of grounding element 1150, as shown in FIG.11C.

The foregoing description of exemplary implementations providesillustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or tolimit the embodiments described herein to the precise form disclosed.Modifications and variations are possible in light of the aboveteachings or may be acquired from practice of the embodiments. Forexample, although grounding interfaces 658, 902, and 1002 have beenillustrated and described in terms of ball ends 665, 931, and 1031, andgrounding device 113 of elbow connector 100 has been illustrated anddescribed in terms of a cylindrical, clamp engaging end 140, in otherembodiments difference configurations may be implemented in a mannerconsistent with the described features. For example, grounding device113 may be provided with a ball end interface and grounding cam-op linkassembly 650 may be provided with a cylindrical clamp engaging end. Instill other embodiments, different configurations of clamp engagingsurfaces may be implemented.

Implementations may also be used for other devices, such as other highvoltage switchgear equipment, such as any 15 kV, 25 kV, or 35 kVequipment. For example, various features have been mainly describedabove with respect to elbow power connectors. In other implementations,other medium/high voltage power components may be configured to includethe grounding assemblies described herein.

For example, FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate schematic, cross-sectional viewsof a voltage arrester 1200 having an integrated ground elementconfiguration similar to that described above with respect to FIGS.11A-11C. Unlike the embodiments of FIGS. 1A-11C, first end 1204 ofvoltage arrester 1200 is configured to receive a metal-oxide varistor(MOV) stack 1206 therein for protecting coupled components fromovervoltage conditions.

Although the invention has been described in detail above, it isexpressly understood that it will be apparent to persons skilled in therelevant art that the invention may be modified without departing fromthe spirit of the invention. Various changes of form, design, orarrangement may be made to the invention without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the above-mentioneddescription is to be considered exemplary, rather than limiting, and thetrue scope of the invention is that defined in the following claims.

No element, act, or instruction used in the description of the presentapplication should be construed as critical or essential to theinvention unless explicitly described as such. Also, as used herein, thearticle “a” is intended to include one or more items. Further, thephrase “based on” is intended to mean “based, at least in part, on”unless explicitly stated otherwise.

What is claimed is:
 1. A medium or high voltage electrical device,comprising: a longitudinal body; a first connector end formedsubstantially perpendicularly to an axial direction of the longitudinalbody; and an integral grounding element end substantiallyperpendicularly to the axial direction of the longitudinal body andopposing the first connector end, wherein the first connector endincludes a first axial bore configured to receive a bushing elementtherein, wherein the grounding element end includes a second axial boreformed therein for receiving a conductive grounding element therein,wherein the grounding element, when inserted into the second axial boreincludes an exposed portion projecting above a surface of the groundingelement end, and wherein the exposed portion of the grounding element isconfigured for attachment by a grounded hot line clamp to ground theelectrical connector assembly.
 2. The medium or high voltage electricaldevice of claim 1, wherein the grounding element end comprises a taperedouter configuration for engaging an insulated cap when the electricaldevice is not to be grounded.
 3. The medium or high voltage electricaldevice of claim 1, wherein a second end of the grounding elementopposite the exposed portion comprises a stud engaging portion forconductively engaging a stud portion of a bushing received in the firstaxial bore in the first connector end.
 4. The medium or high voltageelectrical device of claim 1, wherein the exposed portion of thegrounding element comprises a generally cylindrical configuration forengaging clamping members of the hot line clamp.
 5. The medium or highvoltage electrical device of claim 3, wherein the exposed portioncomprises a multi-function bore formed axially therein, wherein themulti-function bore includes a grounding element attachment portion, andwherein, following insertion of the grounding element into the secondbore of the grounding element end, the grounding element is securedwithin the second bore by application of a tool within the groundingelement attachment portion of the multi-function bore.
 6. The medium orhigh voltage electrical device of claim 5, further comprising: aninsulated cap configured to cover the exposed portion of the groundingelement when the electrical connector is in a non-groundedconfiguration.
 7. The medium or high voltage electrical device of claim6, wherein the insulated cap comprises an insulated body and a securingelement, wherein the insulated body of the insulated cap comprises atapered cavity therein for receiving the grounding element end, whereinthe securing element of the insulated cap projects within the taperedcavity, wherein the multi-function bore includes a second cap-securingportion, and wherein, upon placement of the tapered cavity of theinsulated cap on the grounding element end, the securing element isconfigured to engage the cap-securing portion of the multi-functionbore.
 8. The electrical connector assembly of claim 7, wherein thesecuring element comprises a threaded stud and wherein the cap-securingportion of the multi-function bore comprises a correspondingly threadedportion of the multi-function bore.
 9. The electrical connector assemblyof claim 1, wherein the exposed portion of the grounding elementcomprises a ball configuration for engaging a ball socket in the hotline clamp.
 10. The medium or high voltage electrical device of claim 1,wherein the electrical device comprises an electrical connector andwherein the longitudinal body comprises a axial bore configured toreceive a prepared power cable therein for electrical coupling to thebushing and the grounding element.
 11. The medium or high voltageelectrical device of claim 1, wherein the electrical device comprises avoltage arrester and wherein the longitudinal body comprises a axialbore configured to receive a metal-oxide varistor (MOV) stack forelectrical coupling to the bushing and the grounding element.
 12. Apower cable elbow connector assembly, comprising: a connector bodyhaving a conductor receiving end, a bushing interface end projectingsubstantially perpendicularly from the connector body, and a groundingelement end projecting substantially perpendicularly from the connectorbody and oriented substantially opposite to the bushing receiving end,wherein the connector body includes a first axial bore that communicateswith each of a second axial bore and a third axial bore in the bushinginterface and grounding element ends, respectively, wherein the secondaxial bore of the bushing interface end is configured to receive aswitchgear bushing therein, and wherein the third axial bore of thegrounding element end is configured to receive a conductive groundingdevice therein, wherein the grounding device is configured toconductively connect to each of the switchgear bushing and a power cablereceived in the conductive receiving end, wherein the grounding deviceincludes an exposed conductive portion configured to engage a groundedhot line clamp, during grounding of the electrical connector assembly;and an insulated cap configured to cover the exposed conductive portionof the grounding device during normal operation of the electricalconnector.
 13. The power cable elbow connector assembly of claim 12,wherein the exposed conductive portion of the grounding device comprisesone of a cylindrical or ball configuration.
 14. The power cable elbowconnector assembly of claim 13, wherein the exposed portion comprises amulti-function bore formed axially therein, wherein the multi-functionbore includes a grounding device attachment portion and a cap securingportion, wherein, following insertion of the grounding device into thethird axial bore of the grounding element end, the grounding device issecured within the third axial bore by application of a tool within thegrounding device attachment portion of the multi-function bore, andwherein the insulated cap is secured to the grounding element end viathe cap securing portion of the multi-function bore.
 15. The power cableelbow connector assembly of claim 14, wherein the insulated capcomprises an insulated body and a securing element, wherein theinsulated body of the insulated cap comprises a tapered cavity thereinfor receiving a tapered configuration of the grounding element end,wherein the securing element of the insulated cap projects within thetapered cavity, and wherein, upon placement of the tapered cavity of theinsulated cap on the grounding element end, the securing element isconfigured to engage the cap securing portion of the multi-functionbore.
 16. A method, comprising: connecting a bushing interface of anelectrical device to a switchgear bushing, wherein the electrical devicefurther comprises a longitudinal body and an integral grounding elementend projecting from the longitudinal body oppositely from the bushinginterface, wherein the grounding element end includes an axial boretherein configured to align with the switchgear bushing when theelectrical device is installed on the switchgear bushing; inserting aconductive grounding element into the axial bore in the groundingelement end, wherein the grounding element is configured to couple withthe bushing in the bushing interface and further includes an exposedconductive portion projecting from the grounding element end; installingan insulated cap over the exposed conductive portion of the groundingelement; energizing the power cable elbow connector; de-energizing thepower cable elbow connector; removing the insulated cap; and attaching ahot line clamp to the exposed conductive portion of the groundingdevice, wherein the hot line clamp is coupled to a ground line to groundthe power cable elbow connector.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein theelectrical device comprises one of an power cable elbow connector or avoltage arrester.
 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the groundingelement comprises a multi-function bore formed in the exposed end, themulti-function bore comprises a grounding element securing portion and acap securing portion, wherein the method further comprises: securing thegrounding element to the bushing by application of a tool within thegrounding element securing portion of the multi-function bore, andsecuring the insulated cap over the grounding element end via the capsecuring portion of the multi-function bore.
 19. The method of claim 16,wherein the exposed end of the grounding element comprises one of acylindrical configuration or a ball configuration.